Transmission stuck in limp mode

Tiny
MVANN74
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 DODGE INTREPID
  • 142,783 MILES
I have the car listed above with a 2.7. Transmission pan gasket was leaking so I replaced it and also the filter and the fluid. It ran fine for a few days then check engine light came on. P0700 code. So I changed the input and output speed sensors. Transmission is still in limp mode. Stuck in 2nd gear. Replaced TCM. Transmission still in limp mode.
I have been told transmission has to be reprogrammed. Is this true? And how can I get it out of limp mode?
Saturday, September 5th, 2020 AT 3:00 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Hi,

A P0700 is a generic code that indicates there is a diagnostic trouble code stored in the transmission control module. Since you replaced that, we can't read what was actually wrong. (See pic 1) By any chance, were there other codes stored that you remember? Also, this vehicle uses the Power-train Control Module (PCM) instead of the Transmission Control Module (TCM). Is that what you replaced?

___________________________________

If it was the PCM that was replaced, here are the directions for the programming process:

___________________________________

2004 Dodge Intrepid V6-2.7L VIN R
PCM Programming
Vehicle Power-train Management Relays and Modules - Power-train Management Relays and Modules - Computers and Control Systems Engine Control Module Testing and Inspection Programming and Relearning PCM Programming
PCM PROGRAMMING
PROGRAMMING THE POWER-TRAIN CONTROL MODULE

IMPORTANT NOTE: Before replacing the PCM for a failed driver, control circuit or ground circuit, be sure to check the related component/circuit integrity for failures not detected due to a double fault in the circuit. Most PCM driver/control circuit failures are caused by internal failure to components (i.E. 12-volt pull-ups, drivers and ground sensors). These failures are difficult to detect when a double fault has occurred and only one DTC has set.

NOTE: If the PCM and the SKIM are replaced, at the same time, program the VIN into the PCM first. All vehicle keys will then need to be replaced and programmed to the new SKIM.

The SKIS Secret Key is an I.D. Code that is unique to each SKIS. This code is programmed and stored in the SKIM, engine controller and transponder chip (ignition key). When replacing the PCM it is necessary to program the secret key into the PCM.

NOTE: After replacing the PCM, you must reprogram pinion factor.

1. Turn the ignition on (transmission in park/ neutral).
2. Use the DRBIII(R) and select THEFT ALARM, SKIM then MISCELLANEOUS.
3. Select PCM replaced.
4. Enter secured access mode by entering the vehicle four-digit PIN.

NOTE: If three attempts are made to enter the secure access mode using an incorrect PIN, secured access mode will be locked out for one hour. To exit this lockout mode, turn the ignition to the run position for one hour then enter the correct PIN. (Ensure all accessories are turned oft. Also monitor the battery state and connect a battery charger if necessary).

5. Press enter to transfer the secret key (the SKIM Will send the secret key to the PCM).

_______________________________________

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Saturday, September 5th, 2020 AT 5:04 PM
Tiny
MVANN74
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Thank you for responding. Attached is a photo of what they told me was the TCM. Also there were 2 additional codes. I don't remember the numbers but they were for the input and output speed sensors which I already replaced. Also, the speedometer is going crazy and not registering. Or do I simply replace the whole transmission?
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Saturday, September 5th, 2020 AT 6:03 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

If the transmission was working properly (not slipping or any other issues) prior to going into limp mode, chances are it is okay. This leads me to believe it is related to an electrical component. My concern is if I suggest replacing the PCM (which is what you have in the pic), it could not change the issue. When it was scanned originally, there should have been specific transmission codes. When it was scanned, was the tool used able to read transmission codes?

Just for the heck of it, switch the transmission control relay with a different one in the power distribution box. Just make sure they have the same part number.

Also, keep in mind that the PCM is constantly monitoring the transmission. When it recognizes a problem, electrical power is taken away from the Transmission via the PCM, de-energizing the transmission control relay, and taking power from the solenoid pack. When this happens, the only transmission mechanical functions are park/neutral, reverse, and second gear. That's why I'm suggesting that you check the relay. I attached a pic below of it's location in the under hood power distribution box.

If there isn't a different relay with the same part number. here is a link that shows how to test one:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Let me know.

Joe

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Saturday, September 5th, 2020 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
MVANN74
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Okay. Will do. I will let you know what happens.
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Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 2:07 PM
Tiny
MVANN74
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Okay. Both input and output speed sensors are replaced. TCM is replaced. Fluid filter and gasket are replaced. Still in limp mode. I don't have the DRB III scan tool to reprogram transmission. Will have to take to dealer or transmission shop for that. Any idea how much that will set me back?
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 4:33 PM
Tiny
MVANN74
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Oh, almost forgot. There were 2 other codes beside the p0700. That are p0715 and p0720.
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 4:36 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Hi,

The 715 is related to the input speed sensor and 720 is the output sensor. You replaced them. If those codes show up again, let me know and we'll work through the diagnostics. Hopefully they won't.

Let me know what yo find.

Joe
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 8:26 PM
Tiny
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Took car to shop. Found out I threaded input speed sensor in crooked. They removed that one and installed another. Drives fine and shifts okay. Up until a few minutes ago when the check engine came on. P0700 again. But car still runs and shifts fine. Am I missing here?
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Saturday, September 12th, 2020 AT 9:03 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Is that the only code that showed up? Usually when you get a P0700, that indicates there are codes stored in the transmission control module.

As far as the sensor you had reinstalled, check to make sure nothing is loose. If threads were damaged when you put it in originally, it may have come loose.

By the way, it isn't hard to cross thread the sensor. There isn't that much room to work.

Let me know.
Joe
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Sunday, September 13th, 2020 AT 7:36 PM

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